1981 BMW M1 vs. 2001 BMW Z3
To start off, 2001 BMW Z3 is newer by 20 year(s). Which means there will be less support and parts availability for 1981 BMW M1. In addition, the cost of maintenance, including insurance, on 1981 BMW M1 would be higher. At 3,453 cc (6 cylinders), 1981 BMW M1 is equipped with a bigger engine. In terms of performance, 1981 BMW M1 (273 HP @ 6500 RPM) has 106 more horse power than 2001 BMW Z3. (167 HP @ 6100 RPM). In normal driving conditions, 1981 BMW M1 should accelerate faster than 2001 BMW Z3. With that said, vehicle weight also plays an important factor in acceleration. 2001 BMW Z3 weights approximately 45 kg more than 1981 BMW M1.
Both vehicles are rear wheel drive (RWD) - it offers better handling in dry conditions; in addition, if you are looking to drift, both vehicles do the job better than front wheel drive vehicles. With that said, do keep in mind that many other factors such as speed and the wear on your tires can also have significant impact on traction and control. Let's talk about torque, 1981 BMW M1 (330 Nm @ 5000 RPM) has 120 more torque (in Nm) than 2001 BMW Z3. (210 Nm @ 3500 RPM). This means 1981 BMW M1 will have an easier job in driving up hills or pulling heavy equipment than 2001 BMW Z3.
Compare all specifications:
| 1981 BMW M1 | 2001 BMW Z3 | |
| Make | BMW | BMW |
| Model | M1 | Z3 |
| Year Released | 1981 | 2001 |
| Body Type | Coupe | Convertible |
| Engine Position | Middle | Front |
| Engine Size | 3453 cc | 2171 cc |
| Engine Cylinders | 6 cylinders | 6 cylinders |
| Engine Type | in-line | in-line |
| Horse Power | 273 HP | 167 HP |
| Engine RPM | 6500 RPM | 6100 RPM |
| Torque | 330 Nm | 210 Nm |
| Torque RPM | 5000 RPM | 3500 RPM |
| Engine Bore Size | 93.5 mm | 80 mm |
| Engine Stroke Size | 84 mm | 72 mm |
| Engine Compression Ratio | 9.0:1 | 10.8:1 |
| Acceleration 0-100mph | 5.9 seconds | 7.9 seconds |
| Drive Type | Rear | Rear |
| Transmission Type | Manual | Manual |
| Number of Seats | 2 seats | 2 seats |
| Number of Doors | 2 doors | 2 doors |
| Vehicle Weight | 1300 kg | 1345 kg |
| Vehicle Length | 4370 mm | 4060 mm |
| Vehicle Width | 1830 mm | 1750 mm |
| Vehicle Height | 1140 mm | 1300 mm |
| Wheelbase Size | 2570 mm | 2450 mm |
| Fuel Tank Capacity | 116 L | 51 L |
